Stage 7: Y Tower

Welcome to the penultimate stage, the Y Tower! This level is a gauntlet, throwing a variety of tough enemies at you. Be prepared for close-quarters combat and strategic use of environmental hazards.

Initial Ascent

The stage begins with an immediate encounter against a mix of Garcias and Donnies. Focus on taking out the Donnies first, as their ranged attacks can be annoying.
As you progress, you'll encounter your first Signal enemy. These agile foes can be tricky; try to corner them and unleash combos.
Keep an eye out for a hidden Apple in the first destructible barrel on the left side of the screen.

Elevator Gauntlet

The elevator section is a challenging sequence where you'll face waves of enemies in a confined space. Prioritize enemies based on their threat level:

Wave 1: A combination of Garcias and a few Signals. Use throws to clear space and avoid getting surrounded.
Wave 2: Introduces Riders. These enemies are fast and can knock you down. Try to intercept them with jump attacks or special moves as they approach.
Wave 3: Expect a mix of all previous enemy types, including a tougher Gems enemy. Focus fire on the Gems to remove their high damage output.
Item Location: During the elevator ride, a Chicken will appear from a crate on the right side. Save it if you can for later in the fight, or use it strategically if your health is low.

Upper Floors

After the elevator, you'll navigate a series of corridors and rooms, each presenting new challenges.

Corridor Ambush: Be ready for an ambush by multiple Garcias and a Donnie wielding a pipe. Try to disarm the Donnie quickly.
Office Area: This open room will pit you against a pair of Signals and a Gems. Use the environment to your advantage, throwing enemies into walls or other foes.
Item Location: In the office area, smash the vending machine on the left for a much-needed Pizza.

Final Approach to the Boss

The path to the boss room is guarded by some of the toughest regular enemies in the game.

You'll face multiple Riders and a Gems in a tight space. Consider using your special attacks to clear the screen and create openings.
Before entering the boss arena, there's a final Apple hidden in a crate to the right. grab it to top off your health.

Boss Strategy: Max Thunder (Retro)

The boss of Y Tower is a retro version of Max Thunder. Max is a powerhouse with devastating grapples and powerful strikes. Here's how to take him down:

Stay Mobile: Max is slow but hits incredibly hard. Do not stand still in front of him. Constantly move around him, hitting him with quick combos and then retreating.
Punish Whiffs: Max has several slow, telegraphed attacks. Dodge these and immediately counter-attack. His "Thunder Tackle" (charging shoulder tackle) leaves him vulnerable if he misses.
Avoid Grapples: His grapple attacks deal massive damage. If he gets close, try to jump away or use a defensive special.
Use Star Moves: This is a great fight to unleash your Star Moves, especially if you have one that covers a wide area or deals high damage to a single target.
Environmental Damage: There are no environmental hazards in this boss arena, so focus purely on Max's attack patterns.
Health Management: If you saved the Apple from the previous section, now is the time to use it if your health is low.